Topical Bible: Temple: Solomon's by Jehoash, King of Israel

◄ Temple: Solomon's by Jehoash, King of Israel ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Temple of Solomon, a central place of worship for the Israelites, holds significant historical and religious importance in the biblical narrative. Constructed by King Solomon, the son of David, the Temple was a symbol of God's presence among His people and a focal point for Israelite worship and sacrifice. However, throughout its history, the Temple faced periods of desecration and destruction, one notable instance being during the reign of Jehoash, King of Israel.

Historical Context

Jehoash (also known as Joash), the son of Jehoahaz, reigned as the king of Israel in the 9th century BC. His reign is marked by conflict with the southern kingdom of Judah, particularly with King Amaziah. The political and military tensions between the two kingdoms culminated in a significant confrontation that had dire consequences for the Temple of Solomon.

Biblical Account

The account of Jehoash's actions against the Temple is recorded in 2 Kings 14:8-14. The narrative describes how Amaziah, king of Judah, challenged Jehoash to battle. Despite Amaziah's confidence, Jehoash warned him through a parable, advising against such a confrontation. Ignoring the warning, Amaziah proceeded, leading to his defeat at Beth-shemesh.

Following his victory, Jehoash advanced to Jerusalem, where he breached the city wall from the Ephraim Gate to the Corner Gate, a distance of about four hundred cubits. The Berean Standard Bible recounts this event: "Then Jehoash king of Israel captured Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Ahaziah, at Beth-shemesh. Then Jehoash went to Jerusalem and broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the Gate of Ephraim to the Corner Gate, a section of four hundred cubits" (2 Kings 14:13).

Desecration of the Temple

In addition to breaching the city walls, Jehoash plundered the Temple of Solomon. The sacred treasures of the Temple, along with the gold and silver, were seized. The Berean Standard Bible details this plundering: "He took all the gold and silver and all the articles found in the house of the LORD and in the treasuries of the king’s palace, as well as some hostages. Then he returned to Samaria" (2 Kings 14:14).

This act of desecration was a significant blow to the religious and cultural identity of Judah. The Temple, which had been a place of divine encounter and national pride, was stripped of its treasures, symbolizing a period of humiliation and subjugation for the people of Judah.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the desecration of the Temple by Jehoash serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and pride. The conflict between Amaziah and Jehoash, and the subsequent plundering of the Temple, highlight the vulnerability of even the most sacred institutions when leaders stray from God's commandments. The event underscores the importance of humility, obedience, and reliance on God rather than human strength or political alliances.

Legacy

The plundering of Solomon's Temple by Jehoash is a poignant episode in the history of Israel and Judah, reflecting the broader narrative of the Israelites' relationship with God. It serves as a historical marker of the challenges faced by the divided kingdoms and the enduring significance of the Temple as a symbol of God's covenant with His people.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 14:14
And he took all the gold and silver, and all the vessels that were found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and hostages, and returned to Samaria.
Nave's Topical Index